Istanbul's Galata Bridge has spanned the Golden Horn since the 6th century, connecting the old city with the more Western districts to the north. But the bridge is a city in itself, peopled by merchants and petty thieves, tourists and fishermen, and is at the same time a microcosmic reflection of Turkey as the link between Asia and Europe. Geert Mak introduces us to cigarette vendors, a woman who sells lottery tickets, and the best pickpockets in Europe. He tells us about the pride of the cobbler, and the tea-seller's homesickness. And he describes the role of honor in Turkish culture, the temptations of fundamentalism and violence, and the urge to survive, even in the face of despair.

"This thoughtful, beautifully written book is suffused with a respect for the richness of the inner life of individuals that transcends tired metaphors."—Independent (London)